Daniel John Smith, 59

Dan was born on Aug. 27, 1958, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, to Joan and John Joseph Smith. The family moved to Seattle, Washington in 1962. Dan graduated from Lake Stevens High School in Lake Stevens, Washington in 1977. He went on to complete Marine Machinist training at Renton Technical College in 1993.

Dan married Leslee Balsley in 1987 and his daughter, Jacqueline “Jackie” Joan, was born in 1989. Dan and family moved to Hot Springs, Montana, where he and Leslee bought the historic Symes Hot Springs Hotel in 1996. Dan’s beloved grandson, Asher Collin Emmert, was born on April 24, 2016, and brought many hours of love and laughter to Dan’s life.

Dan died suddenly from cardiac arrest while enjoying one of his favorite outdoor activities. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing and hunting with his many friends and family members.

Dan Smith is survived by his father, John (Marlene) Smith; his mother, Joan (Steve) Brakkus; brother, Gary; nephew, EJ; ex-wife, Leslee (Dale); daughter, Jacqueline Joan (Eric); grandson, Asher Collin Emmert; and his best friend and companion, Lisa Wrbelis. Dan will also be greatly missed by the numerous friends, family, and community members in both Montana and Washington whose lives he impacted so incredibly throughout the years.

A graveside service will be held at the Lonepine Cemetery at 1 p.m. with a memorial to follow at the Symes Hotel.

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